After nearly a decade of planning and construction, Okaloosa County opened its Bridge-to-Bridge Multi-Use Path on Thursday morning with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Beasley Park, creating what officials say is the world’s largest photoluminescent path.

• The 4-mile, 12-foot-wide pedestrian path connects the Brooks Bridge and Marler Bridge on Okaloosa Island, offering an alternative to the Highway 98 shoulder where numerous cyclists and pedestrians have been killed or injured over the years.

“We can now enjoy a pedestrian-friendly area along this beautiful stretch of Northwest Florida between Destin and Fort Walton Beach,” said Okaloosa County Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel, who represents District 2. “I truly appreciate the dedication of our Public Works teams as they continue to foster great working relationships with Eglin Air Force Base.”

The path’s distinguishing feature is its use of photoluminescent rocks that allow it to glow at night, creating what Ketchel described as “the largest photoluminescent path in the world.” While the technology has been used elsewhere globally, this represents a first for Florida.

For Ketchel, the project carries deep personal significance. She lost her 17-year-old brother, Stephen Newcomer, in a bicycle accident when he was struck by a car. The commissioner recalled one Highway 98 fatality involving a cyclist heading to an Easter sunrise service who was struck and killed.

• “There have been numerous deaths and injuries as folks attempted to ride the shoulder of 98, only to have it end in tragedy,” Ketchel said during Thursday’s ceremony. 

The path originated from an idea brought to Ketchel almost a decade ago by constituents Kathy Foster and Dave Hancock.

“So many good ideas start with our constituents and this bike path is no exception,” Ketchel said. “It appealed to me instantly.”

The $4 million project required securing property from Eglin Air Force Base and funding from multiple sources, including the Tourist Development Council, the state legislature and a private donation from local developer Jay Odom.

Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon said the path demonstrates the county’s commitment to recreation and wellness, while also highlighting the important relationships between local partners who helped make the project a reality.

•  ”It’s fun to be able to come and have these times together,” Mixon said. “It’s even more fun to know that at all levels – local and state – we have relationships that allow us to accomplish millions of dollars towards something that enhances our way of life and gives us something, as you heard, that nobody else has. What a blessed day it is to live in Okaloosa County.”

CW Roberts Asphalt Company handled construction and worked with the county to incorporate the photoluminescent materials. The project also included improvements to beach access parking areas with more solid bases and the installation of bollards at strategic locations for added safety.

Ketchel credited Major General Evan Dertien and Dale Marks, former executive director of the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, for their support in securing the necessary property.

• “Without the tenacious support of these two individuals, this project would not have happened,” she said.

The path is designated for pedal-powered transportation only. Golf carts and cars are prohibited. Sheriff Eric Aden and his department will enforce the rules as users adapt to the new facility. 

Ketchel also thanked Deputy County Administrator of Development Services Jason Autrey, Deputy County Administrator Craig Coffee, Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Peters, Florida Department of Transportation staff, and local officials including Kelly Windes, Northwest Florida State College President Mel Ponder, Rep. Nathan Boyles and Graham Fountain. 

“This bike path will be a jewel for locals, tourists and military personnel,” Ketchel said.

Attendees at the ribbon-cutting were encouraged to walk or ride bicycles along the path after the ceremony.